How Much Do Plumbers Make?
If you are considering a career as a plumber, Illinois is a great place to be. Illinois is among the top five best states for plumber salaries, and you can have a high-paying job in this field. Though it is hard to say how much every individual plumber will make because there are many factors that influence salaries, here is a closer look at average salaries for this high-demand field.
What Is the Average Salary for Plumbers in Illinois?
The state of Illinois has one of the highest salaries for plumbers in the nation, second only to Hawaii and New York, and not by much. The mean salary for plumbers in Illinois is $77,570 per year. This is higher than the 75th percentile for the entire nation, which is $69,710. Though not every plumber in Illinois is guaranteed this level of income, it is clear that this state is a good place for plumbers to live.
What Influences Plumbing Salaries in Illinois?
Plumbing salaries in Illinois are influenced by several factors. Some of these include:
- Experience – The longer someone has worked as a plumber, the greater their level of experience and, therefore, the greater their level of pay.
- Education – All plumbers must receive a specific level of education in order to be licensed, but a high-quality education will increase your level of pay in this field. Additional training and specialization can mean higher pay.
- Certification – The more certifications a plumber carries, the higher rate of pay that professional can require.
- Who you work for – Working for a plumbing company or working for yourself as an independent plumber can influence your take-home pay. Sometimes, independent plumbers end up earning more, but other times, they have more overhead that offsets the increased income.
- Demand – The more demand there is in your geographic area for plumbing services, the more you can charge for what you offer.
In light of these factors, it is clear that wages for a plumber can vary significantly. That said, it is a high paying trade and one worth considering in your search for a career path.
How to Get a Plumbing License in Illinois
If you are interested in taking advantage of the higher pay in Illinois, you will need to learn how to become a plumber in Illinois. If you are at least 16 years of age, you can start preparing for this career. All it takes is two years of high school or the equivalent to begin. Start with a plumbing license exam prep course, then find a licensed plumber who will sponsor you as an apprentice. Complete your apprenticeship, finish high school, and take the mock plumbing exam. You are now ready to take your licensing exam and become a licensed plumber!
If you are looking for help to prepare for your plumbing license, call Illinois Plumbing Consultants at 866-608-9523!